Merrin was hit with a grade two dangerous throw charge for his part in a tackle with NSW teammate Trent Hodkinson which dumped Queensland lock and man-of-the-match Corey Parker on his head.

North Queensland will also pay a price with their NSW prop James Tamou facing a two week ban after a being charged with a grade careless high tackle on rival Jacob Lillyman in the 52-6 loss in the series decider in front of a Suncorp Stadium record 52,500 fans in Brisbane.

A third NSW forward Beau Scott is look at a one week suspension for a dangerous throw on Queensland captain Cameron Smith.

Losing the hard-working Merrin is a massive blow for the Dragons who are experiencing a slide out of the top eight following a series of losses.

NSW coach Laurie Daley was almost lost for words after being on the end of the biggest defeat in Origin history as Queensland coach Mal Meninga celebrated his 55th birthday with his ninth series in 10 years.

"Geez, didn't see that coming," said Daley.

"We were never in it. We didn't start the way we would have liked and we didn't get much better from there. We never expected that. I don't think anyone expects 50 to be put on you in Origin. It's not who we are.

"It's not back to square one but I didn't see that coming at all. So obviously we have taken a few steps backwards. We need to be better.

"That wasn't us tonight."

Battered skipper Paul Gallen was more shattered than his coach, suggesting he and his players had let down the blue jumper.

"We let ourselves down," he said.

"Our training camp was unbelievable. I found myself getting up (on Wednesday) and thinking what do I do to encourage the boys because they have been so perfect.